[Antibacterial activity of species of the genus Allium]

Garlic, onion and shallot were tested for antimicrobial activity against pathogenic aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. The MIC of aqueous and petroleum ether extracts were determined. Garlic showed the greater activity; the combination garlic-antibiotic is synergistic against Acinetobacter calcoaceticus and leads to indifference against anaerobic bacteria. The active constituent is not probably allicin alone.